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Chairman’s Report: Mr. Downes commented
on his new chairmanship, stressing his views of the importance
of planning and inclusion. He also
commented on the state budget, the importance of a strong working
relationship with the Presidents’ Council, completing the
work of the Senior Public and Capital Planning Task Forces, and
quantifying the positive
impact of
higher education.
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Executive Director’s Report: Ms. Oates commented on the previous
two weeks of budget deliberations and details of the higher education
budget. She acknowledged the difficulties colleges now face but indicated
she is
confident the presidents will do everything possible to avoid any
negative impact on access and quality.
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Long-Range Plan Update: Deputy Executive Director Oswald indicated that
the Commission working session following the meeting will provide
staff with direction to begin developing the 2006 update of A Blueprint for Excellence.
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Initial Discussion for Fiscal 2008 Budget Policy Statement: There
was consensus that the Commission and Presidents’ Council must
work together to establish priorities and a means of effective communication.
Communication
with other stakeholders will also be important.
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Report on the Governor’s Schools: Ms. Oates
indicated that five of the six Governor’s Schools are open and
running well; the last will open in two weeks. Discussions in the fall
will determine future
oversight
and operation of the programs.
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Annual Report on Licensure Activities: Ms. Marguerite Beardsley, acting
director of academic affairs, provided an overview of all licensure-related
activity in fiscal 2006 and anticipated licensure-related activity
in fiscal 2007.
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Initial Licensure Review Discussion: Ms. Beardsley initiated
a discussion about the review that is underway of existing licensure regulations
and procedures.
Commissioners mentioned various areas that will be important to discuss
and cited a linkage of this work to long-range plan efforts.
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Adoption of Model Code of Ethics Regulations: The Commission adopted
the model code of ethics regulations with amendments that were published in the
New Jersey Register.
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Amendment to Commission Bylaws: The Commission adopted an amendment to
its bylaws, adding an additional member to the Executive Committee. Chairman
Downes appointed Commissioner Susan Blount to serve on the committee.
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EOF Update: Commissioner Collins reported on the fiscal 2007
EOF budget.
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HESAA Update: Commissioner Smith reported on the fiscal 2007 budget for
HESAA programs and commented on NJ STARS, NJ CLASS loans, and other efforts.
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Presidents’ Council Report: Dr. Yaw commented on the budget and
challenging times ahead. He stressed the need for the Council and Commission
to work
together and the need to discuss the area of accountability.
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Comments from the Public: Dr. John Pace, president,
Association of New Jersey County College Faculties – commented
on leadership, the budget, tuition, and adjuncts.